The Federal Government Pathways Programs described below provide current students and recent graduates with meaningful training and career development opportunities to gain access to federal jobs and internships.

Internship Program

This program offers high school, college and trade school students paid opportunities to work in a federal agency and explore different career paths while continuing their education. Upon successful completion of an internship, including 640 hours of work, participants will be eligible for conversion to full-time federal employment. Agencies may waive up to 320 hours of the work experience requirement for outstanding performers. For more information visit the Internship Program Fact Sheet.

Eligibility:

Current students in an accredited high school, college (including 4-year colleges/universities, community colleges, and junior colleges); professional, technical, vocational, and trade school; advanced degree programs; or other qualifying educational institution pursuing a qualifying degree or certificate.

To Apply:

Recent Graduates Program

This one year developmental program is intended to promote careers in the civil service to individuals who, within the previous two years, graduated from qualifying educational institutions with an associates, bachelors, masters, professional, doctorate, vocational or technical degree or certificate. Participants in the Recent Graduates Program receive a minimum of 40 hours of training and professional development, complete an individual development plan and are assigned a mentor. Additionally, upon successful completion of the program, they will be eligible for conversion to full-time federal employment. For more information visit the Recent Graduates Program Fact Sheet.

Eligibility:

Recent graduates who have completed, within the previous two years, a qualifying associates, bachelors, masters, professional, doctorate, vocational or technical degree or certificate from a qualifying educational institution. Veterans unable to apply within two years of receiving their degree, due to military service obligation, have as much as six years after degree completion to apply.

To Apply:

Presidential Management Fellows Program

The Presidential Management Fellowship (PMF) Program is a prestigious, paid, two-year leadership development program for individuals who have received a qualifying advanced degree within the preceding two years. The Program attracts and selects the best candidates possible and is designed to develop a cadre of potential government leaders.

It provides some sustenance during the first years of employment and encourages development of leadership capabilities. The PMF Program inculcates a lasting bond as well as a spirit of public service, ultimately encouraging and leading to a career in the government. More information can be found at the PMF website.

Eligibility:

Individuals who have completed within the past two years, a qualifying advanced degree (e.g., masters or professional degree). The majority of PMF opportunities are limited to US citizens.

To Apply:

The PMF Program accepts applications annually, usually in the fall. When the application window opens, an announcement is posted on USAJOBS. Applicants should be ready to submit their cover letter and resume, as the application window is short.